In recent discussions surrounding governance in Liberia, Professor Dr. Alaric K. Tokpa, the Acting Chairperson of the Governance Commission, has identified a multitude of systemic issues that pose challenges to effective governance under the new administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai. Dr. Tokpa’s analysis, shared at a press conference on October 1, 2024, highlights poor governance practices, the politicization of the civil service, excessive staffing in government entities, and corruption as significant hurdles. He asserts that the current administration has inherited a deeply flawed political system from its predecessor, the Coalition for Democratic Change, and emphasizes the urgency for comprehensive public sector reforms.
Dr. Tokpa insists that reforming the public sector is essential for improving governance, noting that it necessitates a collective effort among various stakeholders. He argues that important values such as accountability, transparency, and effectiveness in performance were largely overlooked during the previous administration led by George M. Weah. By addressing these systemic inadequacies, the new government can lay the groundwork for a more functional and ethical public sector. Dr. Tokpa’s remarks underline the need for a foundational shift towards better governance practices that emphasize responsibility and quality service delivery.
Moreover, the memorandum signed on October 1, 2024, between the Civil Service Agency (CSA) and the Liberia Institute of Public Administration (LIPA) marks a significant stride in pursuing public sector reform and building national capacity. This agreement highlights a commitment to collaborate with stakeholders in overcoming governance challenges and fostering socio-economic growth. Dr. Tokpa emphasizes that this memorandum is pivotal for galvanizing efforts on national development initiatives and illustrates a united front among key government institutions.
The collaboration between these institutions aims to revitalize the Tripod, a tripartite framework intended for civil service reform and capacity enhancement. Dr. Tokpa presents a vision for a more equitable and effective public service that fosters gender inclusivity and promotes human resource development. He stresses that restructuring public institutions to better define their roles and enhance their operational efficacy is crucial for the successful implementation of reform initiatives such as the Arrest Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID).
To facilitate the ambitious reform agenda, Dr. Tokpa advocates for engaging various domestic and international stakeholders, including government officials, legislators, judiciary members, civil society, and private sector actors, to ensure comprehensive participation in the reform process. He insists that collective engagement is vital in transitioning from a vision for governance to actionable policies, goals, and programs that will ultimately lead to socio-economic improvements in Liberia.
Ultimately, Dr. Tokpa’s message underscores the imperative for serious reflection and concerted action in addressing the governance crises in Liberia. By revamping the public sector and fostering a spirit of collaboration among various stakeholders, the Boakai-Koung administration can pave the way for a reinvigorated governance framework. This effort, anchored in accountability, transparency, and ethical standards, is essential not only for political stability but also for the socio-economic advancement of the nation. The call for reform, emphasized by Dr. Tokpa, serves as a crucial reminder of the responsibility each institution and individual holds in the pursuit of a better Liberia.
